We can all agree that sunsets are beautiful and kittens are cute. The fact that we can agree on "something" is the starting point in some relationship building exercises, strategies, or philosophies. Whichever way you like it, if you want someone to like you, listen to what you have to say, and eventually make a decision based on some useful information you share--make them feel good in some way, first. That can be as simple as sharing images of beautiful sunsets, and other natural wonders, baby animals, or children in general, or saying nice things to them, personally, to encourage them in some way.
Be nice.
Encouragement can come in many forms, but doesn't mean you need to kiss up or butt or whatever you want to envision. Actually kissing up or butt isn't advisable because it's pretty transparent and inauthentic. Right?
Listen for the clues inviting you to connect using common interests --music, sport, film, or food--there's usually something that we can agree on.
Common interests.
Find that "something" to agree on with everyone you meet. Sometimes it's easy to find mutually beneficial relationships that foster sharing, growth, empathy, and encouragement. Sometimes, relationships you've had for years come up against challenges that seem insurmountable. When core values, questions of ethics, and constant battles against perceived propaganda, are the mountains we have to climb with longtime friends and family, that challenge begins to direct the moral compass we are still defining in ourself.
When times (or minds) are tough, GO BACK to the very basics. Every single living being, let alone humans, just wants to be happy and free of problems or suffering; (i.e: everything from the manifest pain of just having a human body, to the mental anguish of losing a loved one).
Everyone without exception wants these two things. To be happy and free of suffering. We are all exactly the same. That's a humbling and sobering thought, no? That even the bugs just want to be happy and live their bug lives without having some human step on them or another animal have them for dinner.
On growth.
Honestly, the view I have now is: If you are not constantly reviewing and evaluating your moral compass and adjusting your view to be more inclusive and compassionate of others and less self-centered, you would do for a few hard stops. Breathe and think about that. If you are already Enlightened, thank you for reading. For the rest of you, here's a Sunset followed by a kitten.
